Support from Alumni and Students Strong

When UMass Lowell launched its first-ever donor challenge on April 25, the goal was simple: Attract 480 donors in the space of 48 hours, and receive $48,000 in challenge funds from an anonymous donor.

But UMass Lowell has a way of exceeding expectations. When Days of Giving wrapped up on April 26, an astounding 2,286 donors had risen to the challenge, contributing a total of $288,729 to support student scholarships and their favorite colleges, clubs and athletics teams.

“We were enormously gratified by this outpouring of support,” says John Feudo, vice chancellor for advancement. “It’s a real testimony to the loyalty of the UMass Lowell community, and their commitment to making a lasting difference in the lives of our students.”

That support was both wide and deep, he noted, with donors from 40 different states, and gifts that ranged up to tens of thousands of dollars, including several challenge gifts. Alumni donors led the field with 37 percent of all gifts, followed by current students (33 percent), faculty and staff (13 percent), parents (9 percent) and friends (8 percent).

“I’m especially encouraged by the amazing support of our students,” adds Feudo. “Creating a culture of philanthropy during their student years bodes well for our future. It also shows that they sincerely believe in paying it forward.”

For more information on how you can give back to UMass Lowell, visit www.uml.edu/give.